By NICOLE VALICEK
THE ALTONA Ladies Probus Club is calling on past members to help celebrate their 25th birthday.
The club will celebrate its 25th anniversary at the Altona RSL Club on 27 March and is inviting its former members to the party.
Pat Marks joined the club in 1989 and is one of its longest serving members.
“I retired from work and it was something I thought I’d like to join and it’s been good, it’s been extra good,” she said.
The 85-year-old said she enjoys the companionship and friendship the club provides.
“There are a few ladies I’ve known for over 20 years… they’re good friendships and always will be.”
Club secretary Merle Phillips said the organisation is for woman who have retired from their profession and want to maintain a social network with others who have similar interests.
Ms Phillips remembers being put on a wait list to join the club that had in excess of 100 members in 1998.
And while the club is down to 60 members Ms Phillips said it will continue to play an important role in the community.
“Probus stands for professional business people, once they’ve retired from work they need something else to keep them occupied to keep the mind ticking over and that’s the whole idea of it.”
She said the club meets at least once a month for fellowship and to hear guest speakers, and there are a selection of activities to enjoy, as well as outings and a range of clubs for every taste.
“Sometimes people need a push once they start coming to the meetings you find they form a friendship with somebody and it gets them out.”
Any former members who would like to attend contact Merle on 9398-3640 or Valerie on 9398 4797.
